Item Description Tsukioka Kōgyo (1869–1927) – Daikan Nōga Series: “Utō (善知鳥)” This elegant woodblock print by Tsukioka Kōgyo belongs to the distinguished series Daikan Nōga, dedicated to the refined and spiritual world of Noh theatre. The work illustrates the Noh play Utō (Seabird / Rhinoceros Auklet), a dramatic and deeply moving story centered on karmic retribution and salvation. The composition presents the central figure in formal Noh costume, rendered with meticulous attention to textile patterns and subdued yet expressive coloration. The dignified stance and solemn facial expression reflect the psychological depth characteristic of Kōgyo’s interpretations of Noh drama. The restrained background enhances the ethereal and introspective atmosphere, allowing the viewer to focus on the spiritual intensity of the subject. In the play Utō, a traveling monk meets an old man at Mount Tateyama, who later reveals himself to be the restless spirit of a hunter from Soto-no-hama in Mutsu Province (present-day Aomori Prefecture). The ghost asks the monk to pray for him and to deliver a token to his family. Upon reaching the hunter’s home, the monk confirms the truth of the apparition. As prayers are offered, the hunter’s spirit reappears, confessing the suffering he endures in hell as retribution for killing many creatures, including the seabird known as utō. In torment, he is attacked by the transformed spirits of the birds he once hunted. The play expresses themes of impermanence, karmic consequence, and Buddhist compassion. Kōgyo’s refined linework and subtle color gradation beautifully convey the tragic dignity and spiritual tension of this classic Noh narrative. A highly collectible work for admirers of traditional Japanese theatre and early 20th-century woodblock prints. Size Approximately 36.5 cm × 26 cm Artist Profile Tsukioka Kōgyo (1869–1927) was a prominent Japanese artist renowned for his depictions of Noh theatre. A pupil and adopted son-in-law of Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, he devoted much of his artistic career to documenting and interpreting classical performing arts. His monumental Daikan Nōga series stands as one of the most comprehensive visual records of Noh theatre from the Meiji and Taishō periods. Kōgyo’s works are celebrated for their precision, atmospheric subtlety, and deep reverence for Japan’s cultural heritage. **PLEASE NOTE** Shipping Information: Items are shipped from Japan. Please check the shipping fee before bidding as this is an international shipment. Items are packed very carefully to prevent damage in transit. Shipping costs are calculated based on the net weight listed on the product page, packing materials, and shipping box weight. Depending on the situation, items will be shipped via FedEx, DHL, or Japan Post. Usually takes 2-3 weeks. Import duties, taxes and fees are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the responsibility of the buyer. You may be contacted by phone or email by your country's customs or shipping agent regarding customs clearance. Please make sure you are available to answer the phone. Otherwise, the parcel will be returned to us and you will be charged double for reshipment. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.